Anchored #3: Score Bonus Points

​DISCLAIMERS
(This is not professional or legal advice. If it were, the article would be followed with an invoice. Do not expect to win any social media arguments by hyperlinking my articles. Chances are, we are both wrong).

(The information in this blog by Coach Ryan Lancaster of the Grand Valley State University Wrestling Club is for general information only. Readers are encouraged to verify and seek professional advice independently, as Coach Lancaster's opinions do not necessarily represent the views of the university or the Wrestling Club. The content is not a substitute for personalized coaching, medical advice, or professional guidance, with the acknowledgment that wrestling involves inherent risks, and neither Coach Lancaster nor the university assumes liability for any injuries or damages resulting from the use of the information presented)

Score Bonus Points

At the heart of GVSU Wrestling Club's (GVSUWC) philosophy is the belief that no match is ever truly over until the final whistle blows. This mindset is encapsulated in the third tenet of our program: "Score Bonus Points." It's not just about winning — it's about winning big. Whether you're on the mat or off it, we strive to outwork our competition in every facet of the sport, ensuring that our team can always maximize our points, both on and off the mat. This philosophy, instilled by our dedicated coaching staff, sets us apart.

The Importance of Bonus Points

In wrestling, winning by a slim margin can sometimes feel like a victory, but it doesn't necessarily set you apart. Securing bonus points, on the other hand, is what elevates a win into a statement. When a wrestler earns a major decision, technical fall, or pin, they don't just win the match—they create a ripple effect for the entire team. These bonus points give your squad the extra cushion it needs in tight team races, making the difference between a narrow victory and a commanding performance.

• A Major Decision (8-14 points) is more than just a win; it signifies that you've controlled the match and outperformed your opponent.
• A Technical Fall (15 points or more) means you've dominated, scoring points in nearly every position.
• A Pin brings ultimate satisfaction—it's not just a win but an emphatic conclusion that tells your opponent and everyone watching that you're in complete control.

Why We Push for Bonus Points

GVSUWC's wrestling philosophy is built on the idea that we should never be satisfied. In the high-stakes world of collegiate wrestling, where every match counts, bonus points can be the difference-maker in securing victories at dual meets or tournaments.

The team benefits from the following momentum when one wrestler scores a pin or tech fall. It's not just about the physical points on the board but the psychological impact it has on the team. A major decision is not just an individual accomplishment—it's a testament to the discipline and execution our program instills in each wrestler. The more we score, the more we assert our dominance and inspire our teammates to push themselves further.

Beyond the Mat: Bonus Points in Every Aspect of Life

While "scoring bonus points" initially applies to wrestling, it extends far beyond the mat. At GVSUWC, we emphasize that the work doesn't stop when practice or competition ends. Success is not limited to your performance during the match but is reflected in everything you do: your commitment to training, your academic achievements, your team-first mentality, and the discipline you bring to every part of your life.

In the classroom, we push to perform at our highest level—just as we would during a match—so that when we step into the wrestling room, we bring our best selves to the table. Whether eating right, getting enough rest, or committing to extra conditioning sessions, we score bonus points in every aspect of our lives. We aim to create a culture of excellence that we are proud of, where satisfaction is never enough, and pushing the envelope is the baseline expectation.
​
The Ultimate Goal: Never Satisfied

"Score Bonus Points" isn't just a tenet; it's a philosophy that drives us to exceed expectations. We are never satisfied with just enough. In competition, academics, and life, we don't just want to win; we want to dominate. Every point we score affirms our relentless commitment to our craft, and as a team, we always strive for more.

The journey to greatness is paved with consistency, determination, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. At GVSUWC, we not only embrace this pursuit but also inspire others to do the same. We know that every bonus point earned is a victory for the team. It's the mark of a champion, and we aim to embody it every time we step onto the mat.

We are a team driven by our commitment to never being satisfied. On and off the mat, we aim for bonus points—always. This relentless pursuit of excellence sets us apart and fuels our ambition to always strive for more.

That's all for now. I hope to get this all out there eventually.

Coach Ryan Lancaster, a NCEP Bronze Level Coach and 2008 NCWA All-American, boasts an impressive career that includes being a member of the 2008 NCWA National Championship Team. His coaching achievements encompass leading two MHSAA District Championship Teams, mentoring numerous All-State and All-American wrestlers, and being a finalist for the MWA Coach of the Year award twice.